GameTZ

Sign OnNon-Mobile

True Crime: Streets of LA (Xbox)

Reviewed by: Umbrella_Inc Has Written 9 Reviews
Reviewed on: 22-Jun-2004

Description

To start out with, when I originally saw the preview for this game, I thought it was a renter. Sure it sounded nice, but how many "Street Fighter" clones can one company release? To my great shock however, I found myself reaching for this game at Wal-Mart and, almost in a catatonic state, slamming the $29.99 down for it on the counter and walking away somewhat content, but mystified as to why I wanted to buy this game. Then I put it in and my entire view changed in a matter of minutes.

Though we may each have our own views as to what we may think of certain games, it is my opinion that True Crime is amazing. Amazing in the fact that it was actually done right and couldn't have gotten any better. As a matter of fact, I gave this game a flat out "A" because I couldn't find a darn thing wrong with it. I had to scrape the bottom of the barrel to get my cons and they are really only minor annoyances that can be found in many games.

This game has you play as a cop who is similar to the "Cobra" cop that Stallone was. I'm not going to spoil any of the story plot, but I will tell you that you have a beautiful 240 square mile recreation of LA and some nice rides to back it up. I'm telling you the graphics in this game are beautiful and one is challenged to find a polygon out of place. The music is well placed, though some of us may prefer the custom soundtrack feature, I tried it both ways.

The replay ability in this game is wonderful as you can beat it 3 separate ways to get the full story. I beat them all in under 12 hours. After that, there is not much to this game as far as replaying it is concerned, but it gets an "A" in my book for this ability, just because it almost compels you and challenges you to get all 3 endings to see what happens.

The learning curve is easy, you'll know how to shoot, kick, and roll like a pro in less than half an hour. Plus, its in-game tutorial system allows you to do weapon training at almost any point and its RPG-like elements lets you upgrade your weapons, cars, etc. throughout the game.

Last, but not least, the gameplay is great, there is something here for everybody. If you like fighting, you have your game. If you like driving, you have your game. If you like shooting, you have your game. All this packaged in with HDTV ready 720p progression and enhanced for widescreen TV’s with more extras than you can shake a stick at. I think this qualifies this game for a distinct shining star "A".

However, don't think this game is a pushover. It can be frustrating at times, but the story flows so smoothly you will want more. I played this game straight through until I beat it. Yes, you heard me, 12 hours straight, I couldn't put it down. You may not have this same reaction, but I believe that for $29.99 you will think this game is a steal.